Frances Elizabeth Smith

February 19, 1938 - December 26, 2016

A beautiful angel went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Monday, December 26, 2016. She was the epitome of strength, devotion, and love. Mrs. Frances Elizabeth Smith was born in Columbia, South Carolina, on February 19, 1938, to the late Edward and Mary Free Hall. In 1956 she graduated from the legendary Booker T. Washington High School, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Benedict College in 1960. Frances began her career as a physical education teacher and dance instructor at Ethel Knight High School in La Grange, Georgia. On March 16, 1971, she married the late Alexander Emanuel Smith. The couple settled in Columbia to raise their children, Lynda, Donald, and Alexander. Frances enjoyed many years working for the United States Postal Service. After retirement she became a caregiver to seniors in need. Mrs. Smith was a devoted member of Antioch Baptist since she was a toddler. Over the years she served in numerous capacities that included interim Sunday School Superintendent, Vacation Bible School teacher and the By Laws Committee member. Frances faithfully attended Noon Day Bible Study and loved Sunday School. Her love for music and dancing was often on display during her involvement with the Shepherd Center. She adored her family. Frances' famous sweet potato pies, sweet tea and broccoli and cheese casseroles were the highlight of holiday meals! She and her sister Edna who is also her best friend, loved to travel! They would often visit places such as Myrtle Beach, Atlantic City, amusements parks and the Grand Cayman Islands. Frances was preceded in death by her parents and husband. She leaves to cherish her loving memories her devoted children: Lynda (Larry) Mitchell of Grand Cayman Islands, Donald Smith-Curtis and Alexander Smith both of Columbia, South Carolina; ten wonderful grandchildren: LaShanta Raymond, Jacqueline Guest, Johnathan Mitchell, Erin Curtis, Jade Curtis, Princeton A. Smith, Alexandria Smith, Sierra Boyd, Kaylee Mickle, Alleah Smith; six great-grandchildren: Yanni Watson, Joshua Watson, Faye Diamond Raymond, Anastasia Raymond, Zoe’ Raymond, and Jenesis Mitchell; two siblings: her sister, Edna (Robert) Harrison and brother, James C. Hall both of Columbia, South Carolina; nieces: Yolanda Harrison of Columbia, South Carolina, and Robin (Eric) Mayo of Charlotte, North Carolina; nephews: James Christopher (Janitra) Hall and Edward (Teosha) Harrison of Columbia, South Carolina. Frances enjoyed an extraordinary relationship with her great nieces, Edona (Walter) Williams and Emani Harrison (Tywon Pelzer) and a host of families, friends and neighbors. She will be missed by her relatives and dear friends.